"He is able to deal patiently with the ignorant and erring, for he himself is beset by weakness." - Hebrew 5:2
Think of the holiest person you know. What makes them holy in your eyes? It's probably the way that they forgive, the way they bestow mercy, the way they listen, their non-judgmental demeanor, or simply the way they love. Often this person looks like a parent, grandparent, teacher, religious sister, or priest. What makes holy people holy, is not simply the virtues they practice, but the way they encounter others through their own weakness.
If we are to Courageously Live the Gospel, we cannot allow our weaknesses to define who we are. This means, "He is able to deal patiently with the ignorant and erring, for he himself is beset by weakness." Weakness, for someone striving for holiness, is seen differently. They see their own weakness as a measure of their need for God. In recognizing their own weakness, they can better accept the weakness of others, God encounters us in our weakness in order to use it and transform it. Our weakness should not disconnect us from others, but be a place of encountering and helping others.
What is a weakness of yours, that you have yet to allow God into? Now, invite Him into it!
Father, I invite You into my weaknesses. Shine through them, transform them, and use them for Your greater glory!
Reflection by:
Deacon Israel "Izzie" Hernandez
Did you know...
Deacon Israel "Izzie" Hernandez is a transitional deacon for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. He was ordained on April 25th and God-willing, be ordained to the priesthood next May. His home parish is Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O' Lakes. He loves sports and is a fan of the Bucs, Bolts, Rays, Bulls, and Magic.
Pray with us for the men and women discerning the priesthood and religious life. To pray for our seminarians by name or to find out more about the Diocese of St. Petersburg vocations office, click here
